Which type of reproduction involves the fusion of gametes?

Sexual reproduction is characterized by the fusion of gametes, which are specialized reproductive cells: sperm in males and eggs in females. During this process, the genetic material from two parents combines to create offspring with genetic variation. This fusion allows for the mixing of genes, which enhances the genetic diversity within a population, giving species greater adaptability to changing environments.

In contrast, asexual reproduction does not involve the fusion of gametes and results in offspring that are genetically identical to the parent organism. Regeneration refers to the ability of certain organisms to regrow lost body parts and is not a reproductive method in itself. Budding is a form of asexual reproduction where a new organism develops from an outgrowth or bud on the parent, again not involving gametes or genetic mixing. Thus, sexual reproduction is distinct in its reliance on gamete fusion for reproduction and genetic diversity.